Module 3 of 140% complete

Essential Documents: Stay Legal and Organised

Understand the paperwork and processes that keep you legally on the road and ready for checks or emergencies.

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  1. 1Overview
  2. 2DVSA Essentials
  3. 3Documents
  4. 4When Things Change
  5. 5Checklist
  6. 6Test

Why Documents Matter

Keeping your documents up to date proves you’re entitled to drive, insured, and operating a roadworthy vehicle. It also makes roadside or insurance checks stress-free.

DVSA Essentials

  • You must have a valid provisional or full driving licence to drive on public roads.
  • Vehicles over three years old need a valid MOT certificate.
  • You must be insured to drive the vehicle, and it must be taxed (Vehicle Excise Duty).

Key Documents

  • Driving licence photocard—check the expiry date and address details.
  • Insurance certificate or digital proof—know who you’re insured to drive and any excesses.
  • MOT certificate (if applicable) and service history.
  • V5C log book for the vehicle owner showing registered keeper details.

When Things Change

  • Update the DVLA if you change name or address.
  • Tell your insurer about vehicle modifications or new main drivers.
  • SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) a vehicle if you stop using it on public roads.
  • Replace lost or damaged documents promptly to avoid fines.

Proving Roadworthiness

Keep a digital and paper copy of maintenance receipts. They help when selling the vehicle or dealing with insurance claims after a collision.

Ready-for-Test Checklist

Tick each habit you can demonstrate consistently on lessons.

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Practice Tips

Tip

Build a folder

Create a shared digital folder for your licence, insurance, MOT, and breakdown cover. Share access with your supervising driver.

Theo’s Advice

Theo’s renewal reminders

Add MOT, tax, and insurance renewal dates to your calendar with alerts one month in advance.

Tip

Mock roadside stop

Role-play being asked for documents. Practise explaining where they’re stored and how you’d show them within seven days at a police station.

Check your understanding

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